MONON BOARD
MONON Trains => Passenger Trains => Topic started by: Tom Kepshire on February 28, 2012, 11:27:12 am
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This photo has always intrigued me. I have always assumed that this consist was some sort of excursion The flag on the locomotive suggests a special. Was in common to have a baggage/ combine on these?? When did scheduled passenger service end?
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It's quite possible people on the excursion would be hauling picnic baskets, blankets, etc., to the beach. There could have even been refreshments carried in the baggage section.
The last scheduled passenger service to and from Michigan City ended in May, 1928. The Monon did so without permission of the Public Service Commission of Indiana. Needless to say, there was quite an uproar from the surrounding communities since mail was hauled on these trains. The Indiana State Prison also transported prisoners on the Monon.
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Tom, this from our Emeritus Guy. The picture, incidentally, was taken August 11, 1937, about 9 years after regular passenger service was discontinued.
The last scheduled First Class (Passenger) trains from/to Michigan City were #9 and # 14 (both to/from Lafayette) on CIL Emp TT #51 of 02/19/28 (superceded 05/06/28),
The next TT (#52) had "new" trains #132/133 scheduled as a Medaryville turn out of Lafayette. This
"turn" last appeared on CIL TT #60 of 07/27/30.
The last scheduled First Class Train was taken off by the time of CIL TT #61 issued11/22/31.
So, the last scheduled passenger service on the Michigan City Branch ended in 1931-2.
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The Indiana State Prison also transported prisoners on the Monon.
I knew that at one time tracks went inside the Prison. Anyone know who owned them? I wonder how many rode the Monon for a ride in "Old Sparky?"
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Mike, what's "Old Sparky"???
Tom, that combine appears to be either #316 or #317, the cars which was recently discussed on the old Listserve.
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"Old Sparky" is slang for the electric chair....
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Yep. Michigan City was the home to Indiana's Death Row. The electric chair, given the name Old Sparky, was made from the wood from the original gallows.
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Old Sparky is on display (under glass) at the Indiana State Prison.
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and here is a picture of Ol' Sparky
at Michigan City
Tzzzzzap!